The 23rd annual “100 Innings of Baseball” kicked off this Saturday in Quincy, and let me tell you, it’s more than just a game; it’s a marathon battle against one of the toughest diseases out there. This yearly tradition brings together dozens of athletes for an incredible cause, fighting for answers in the face of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.
More Than Just a Game: A Million-Dollar Fight
Since 2004, these dedicated players have been hitting the field, not for a trophy, but for something far bigger: ALS research. We’re talking about a group that, in its very first year, pulled in an incredible $100,000! Fast forward to today, and this event has collectively raised over $1 million for the Angel Fund for ALS Research. That’s serious cash making a real difference.
ALS, or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, is absolutely brutal. The CDC says nearly 35,000 people in the US are living with this progressive neurodegenerative disease right now. Rich Kennedy, president of the Angel Fund, knows this pain firsthand. He was diagnosed 10 years ago, and he’s seen his own dad and younger brother lose their lives to it. His brother was only 28 when diagnosed, gone by 30. Kennedy himself says it best: “ALS is horrible. Your brain stays intact while your bodily just gradually deteriorates and falls apart.” He’s leading the charge for more research, hoping doctors get more answers than questions.
No Quit: 100 Innings, Endless Heart
Imagine playing baseball for around 36 hours, non-stop. Your body would be screaming, right? But these players from all over Massachusetts don’t just imagine it; they do it. Patrick Keady, one of the players, summed it up perfectly: “It’s tiresome, it’s not easy but it’s tough to complain.” And why can’t they complain? Because the guys they’re fighting for, like Angel Fund’s Walter Bentson, are there with them every step of the way. Walter was diagnosed back in 1999, and he’s still running this event, proud to give back. He says, “For some unknown reason, I’m still around and want to give back so I’m proud of this game.” That kind of grit, that refusal to quit, it’s what this event is all about. With Rich and Walter staying the entire time, how could any player feel bad about being tired?
This 100-inning marathon is more than just a local event; it’s a testament to human resilience and the power of a community coming together. This story is still developing, so keep an eye out for more updates on the amazing work being done!
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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